Five Swans boutique in downtown Wayzata is adding the timeless style of Simon Pearce glassware to their collection. Head buyer, Jeni Wojahn, shed some light on what makes these pieces so special and how you can bring them into your home.
Valued for their legacy of artisan design and the finest materials, Simon Pearce started his namesake brand at the age of 16, utilizing Georgian glassmaking techniques from centuries ago. However, these are the kinds of designs that never go out of style. “The simple elegance and practicality of the pieces are a perfect fit for our store,” says Jeni.
Five Swans has been a staple in the community for decades, and adding in Simon Pearce with its own storied legacy of style and sophistication made sense. “We have been wishing for access to Simon Pearce for many, many years, and we are so grateful that they have allowed us to sell their beautiful products,” says Jeni. “For years, we have had customers asking if we carry Simon, and we are thrilled to be able to say we do!”
Now that customers know they can get these pieces at their favorite local home goods store, they may be wondering, 'Which pieces are available?' “We have access to the full line. We currently have several styles of the barware, drinkware, bowls, vases, hurricanes, sailboats, and most notably the infamous glass-blown evergreen trees. If you have a piece in mind that we don’t currently have in stock we are happy to order what you are looking for,” shares Jeni. Additionally, this collection will be the perfect fit for all kinds of registries and wish lists and Five Swans will be on tap to help. “We hope that our brides will be able to find many pieces that will provide them with years of beauty and functionality in their homes,” says Jeni. “There is even a bowl named the ‘celebration bowl’ that can be engraved with names or wedding dates!”
For those new to the world of Simon Pearce and interested in learning about what differentiates these products from others, there are key differences. “The unique imprint at the bottom of each piece is called the pontil mark; an impression of where the hot iron once held the piece during its creation,” explains Jeni. “Other companies grind/file this indent off, and Simon keeps it as a signature marking of the handmade process. All pieces are made start to finish in the United States, in Vermont.” Additionally, Simon Pearce uses lead-free materials in all their crystal glassware and custom molds that add to the uniqueness of each piece.
Besides educating customers on what makes Simon Pearce stand apart, they are here to help style and offer advice on which pieces are most popular. “Some of our favorite pieces are the Echo Lake collection. Swirls of glass are wrapped around the pieces to resemble the water near the mill where each piece is made,” says Jeni. “The evergreen trees are a favorite because they come in so many styles and sizes. Many people will add to their collection with one special tree every year.”
These beautiful pieces, meant to last for generations, are made with only the finest materials and showcase classic craftsmanship, making them the perfect gift for all kinds of celebrations and additions to your own special collections at home. “Any Simon Pearce pieces can be bought in store at Five Swans, or ordered over the phone,” says Jeni. “We are absolutely happy to help style and give suggestions on pairing items together!”
For more information on Five Swans boutique, visit fiveswans.com, and to learn more about the story of Simon Pearce, visit simonpearce.com.